As the founder of The Caruso Wellness Center, PLLC, I envision a wellness center that tries to bring holistic healing in mind, body, emotion, and spirit in a variety of ways to those living in the Chicagoland area.

I bring over 20 years of experience and education in pastoral and clinical counseling in the civilian and military contexts. I am committed to helping individuals and couples live happier holistic lives. 

My journey has been shaped by my time as an Old Catholic priest, active-duty Army veteran and chaplain, with multiple combat deployments in Afghanistan and other parts of the Middle East that have given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Service Members and their families. 

Being an openly gay married man, I understand the complexities of navigating identity, relationships, gender roles, and societal expectations, which deeply informs my approach to counseling, especially with LGBTQ clients. My practice is rooted in Adlerian psychology, its therapeutic modality, and overall affirming philosophy on life. 

Your unique circumstances are important, and I take the time to listen to your life story with empathy and cultural sensitivity. I’m not here to offer solutions. Adler tells us, "We are masters of our own actions." Therapy is about walking alongside you to help explore what is working, or not working, in your life at this moment. Together, we work through practical solutions to change what you want in order to live a better lifestyle.

Throughout my career as a marriage and family therapist in Illinois I’ve specialized in working with individuals and couples dealing with a wide range of issues, including post-affair recovery, premarital preparation, addiction, anxiety, and religious trauma. My goal is to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where you feel truly heard and supported. I also specialize in providing objective ESA and Immigration psychological evaluations in assisting you in your life circumstance. 

At The Caruso Wellness Center, PLLC, authentic healing occurs through connection, hospitable listening, and a genuine understanding of each person’s journey. 

Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of infidelity, seeking to strengthen your marriage, working on a K-1 Visa, wanting a thorough Immigration Psychological Evaluation, needing divorce mediation services, or navigating personal challenges, I’m here to help you achieve a more tranquil, balanced life.

I wish you well. ~Dr. Bob

Education:

• Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC: Doctor of Ministry in Military Chaplaincy
• Adler Graduate School, Richfield, MN: Master of Arts in Marriage, Couples, and Family Clinical Counseling
• United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN: Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling
• United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN: Master of Arts in Religion and Theology 
• Hamline University, St. Paul, MN: BA in Philosophy and Legal Studies

Advanced Training and Certifications:

• Immigration Evaluation Advanced Training with Georgia King, LCSW: Asylum Cases, Extreme Hardship Cases, and VAWA Cases.
• Prepare-Enrich Couples Lifestyle Assessment: Certified Practitioner
• Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): Certified Practitioner 
• Hamline University, St. Paul, MN: ABA Certified Paralegal in Family Law and Immigration Law